Sofia Martinez
Cracked dashboards can be unsightly and even dangerous, as they can interfere with the operation of a car's airbags. Cracks are usually caused by heat cycling and UV exposure, which dries out the dashboard. To prevent cracks, it's important to regularly maintain your dashboard by cleaning it, keeping it away from direct sunlight, and parking indoors or in the shade. If cracks do appear, there are several DIY repair options, including epoxy, moldable glue, or overlays, as well as repair kits and moldable silicone putty. For severe cracks, the best option may be to replace the dashboard.
How to keep plastic dash from cracking
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prevention | Park indoors, use a sun shade visor, ventilate the interior, keep it clean and dust-free, avoid sunlight and extreme weather conditions |
| Repair | Epoxy, moldable glue, dashboard overlay, fiberglass, resin, dashboard repair kits, moldable silicone putty, flocking kit |
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What You'll Learn
Use a dashboard cover
One of the best ways to prevent a plastic dashboard from cracking is to use a dashboard cover. Dashboard covers are easy to install and can make the dashboard look new with minimal effort. They are also a more affordable option compared to replacing the entire dashboard.
When choosing a dashboard cover, be sure to read customer reviews to find one that fits your vehicle well. You can find both molded plastic covers and fitted fabric covers, with the former being more attractive but potentially less effective in preventing cracks.
In addition to using a dashboard cover, there are several other measures you can take to protect your dashboard:
- Park your vehicle in the shade or indoors whenever possible to minimize UV exposure.
- Use a windshield sunshade or window coverings to block sunlight and reduce temperature fluctuations.
- Choose a light-colored dashboard as darker colors absorb more heat.
- Keep your dashboard clean and dust-free using a microfiber cloth and gentle, non-abrasive cleaners.
- Apply UV-blocking protectants or conditioners to maintain your dashboard's integrity and protect against sunlight.
By combining the use of a dashboard cover with these preventative measures, you can effectively protect your plastic dashboard from cracking and maintain the aesthetic and comfort of your vehicle's interior.
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Repair kits and glues
If you're looking to repair a cracked plastic dashboard, there are several repair kits and glues available on the market. While some cracks may require a complete replacement, small cracks can often be filled or bonded with repair kits.
One such option is the Plastex Plastic Repair Kit, which can easily glue, fill gaps, repair stripped threads, and remake tabs or small parts in just minutes. Plastex works on any hard plastic, as well as fiberglass and carbon fiber. It comes with a reusable molding bar that allows you to quickly reproduce almost any plastic part.
Another potential solution is to use a thixotropic epoxy, such as Hysol epoxy, to bond the cracked pieces. This method involves cutting a small piece of aluminum sheet to bridge the crack and using the epoxy to fix the aluminum to the plastic. While this option may be more expensive, it has proven effective and long-lasting.
For smaller cracks, a simple solution of super glue and baking soda can be used to repair plastic body panels. This method may not be suitable for larger or more severe cracks.
In addition to these repair kits and glues, you can also find fitted dashboard covers that can improve the appearance of your car's interior without the need for a complete replacement. These covers are easy to install and can give your dashboard a new look with minimal effort.
Remember that the effectiveness of these repairs depends on the severity of the crack and the attention to detail given during the repair process. Always follow the instructions provided with your chosen repair kit for the best results.
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Preventative maintenance
Firstly, keep your dashboard well-protected from the sun and extreme heat. Park your vehicle in a garage or shaded area whenever possible. If parking in the sun is unavoidable, invest in a large sun shade visor that covers the entire dashboard. This will help minimise UV exposure and reduce heat cycling, which are the main causes of dashboard cracking.
Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of your dashboard are important. Keep your dashboard clean and dust-free, and use a quality protectant on a regular basis. There are specialised cleaners available for dashboards, and it is recommended to use an ammonia-based cleaner to prepare the surface for repairs or treatments. Keeping your dashboard clean will not only maintain its appearance but also help prevent cracks from forming or worsening.
If you live in a hot climate, take extra precautions to manage the temperature inside your vehicle. Keep your windows slightly open when parked to allow heat to escape and ventilate the interior. If you need to use air conditioning, avoid setting it too cold initially, as rapid temperature changes can cause the dashboard to crack.
Finally, be mindful of small cracks or imperfections in your dashboard. Over time, these can expand due to the padded foam underneath. Repair kits, epoxy fillers, and moldable glue can be used to treat small cracks and prevent them from growing larger. You can also use a fitted dashboard cover to hide minor cracks and give your dashboard a new look.
By following these preventative maintenance tips, you can effectively protect your plastic dashboard from cracking and maintain the interior of your vehicle.
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Reinforcement and replacement
Reinforcement
Reinforcing a cracked dashboard can be done through several methods, depending on the severity and extent of the cracks. Here are some common approaches:
- Epoxy: Epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill and repair cracks in dashboards. It often comes in two parts: the epoxy putty and a hardening agent. After mixing the two parts, you apply the epoxy to the crack and let it cure. For deeper cracks, multiple layers of epoxy may be necessary. Once cured, the epoxy can be sanded down to create a smooth, level surface.
- Moldable Glue: Moldable glue, such as thixotropic epoxy or silicone putty, is ideal for small, thin cracks. It can be kneaded and worked into the crack, filling the space. Any excess glue is wiped off, and it is left to harden and cure. Moldable glue often comes in various colours to match your dashboard.
- Fiberglass: Using fiberglass cloth and resin on the back of the dashboard can strengthen and reinforce cracked areas. This method may be more suitable for certain vehicles, like Camaros, where console replacements are hard to find.
- Silicone Putty: Similar to moldable glue, silicone putty acts as an adhesive covering that shields the damage and improves the appearance of the crack. It bonds, fills, and seals the damaged area and typically requires a few hours to cure completely.
- Dashboard Overlay: A dashboard overlay that matches your vehicle's make and model can be installed to cover and conceal damage. Overlays are quick to install but require a day to fully cure.
- Other Adhesives: Other adhesives, such as super glue mixed with baking soda or products like JB Weld PlasticWeld and Plastic Bond, can be used to repair cracks in dashboards. These products may vary in terms of curing time and the final appearance of the repair.
Replacement
Replacing the entire dashboard is another option, especially if the cracks are extensive and the dashboard is in rough shape. This approach can be more expensive and labour-intensive, as it involves swapping out the old dashboard for a new or used one. Factory-new dashboards can provide a transformative effect on the interior of your vehicle. However, it is important to note that removing the old dashboard can sometimes lead to more cracks due to the brittle nature of the plastic. Additionally, finding a perfect match for the new dashboard can be challenging, especially for older vehicles.
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Park in the shade
Parking in the shade is one of the most effective ways to prevent your car's dashboard from cracking. When a car is parked in direct sunlight, the sun's rays can heat the dashboard to temperatures of up to 160°F, causing the materials to dry out and become brittle. This is especially true for cheaper plastics and vinyl, which are common in many vehicles. By parking in the shade, you minimise the UV exposure and reduce the temperature fluctuations inside the car, slowing down the deterioration of the dashboard.
While parking in the shade is a good preventative measure, it is not always possible to find a shaded parking spot. In such cases, there are alternative ways to protect your dashboard. One option is to use a windshield sunshade, which blocks the sun's rays from reaching the dashboard and keeps the car cooler. Another option is to tint your windows, which not only reduces the amount of sunshine entering the car but also provides privacy and makes it more difficult for thieves to spot any valuables inside.
In addition to parking in the shade, regular maintenance of your dashboard is important. This includes cleaning it with a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals that can strip away its protective layer. You can also apply UV-blocking sprays or conditioners specifically designed for vinyl and plastic surfaces to maintain the integrity of the dashboard and slow down the natural ageing process caused by exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Taking these preventative measures, such as parking in the shade and proper maintenance, can help extend the lifespan of your dashboard and keep it looking its best.
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Frequently asked questions
To prevent your dashboard from cracking, you should keep it well-maintained and protected. This includes regular cleaning, avoiding sunlight and extreme weather conditions, and parking your car indoors or in the shade.
There are several ways to fix a cracked dashboard, including using epoxy, moldable glue, or overlays. For small cracks, you can use moldable glue or silicone putty to fill and seal the crack. For larger cracks, you may need to use epoxy and sand the surface to smooth out any imperfections. You can also purchase a fitted dashboard cover or replace the entire dashboard.
There are several products available on the market for repairing a cracked dashboard. This includes dashboard repair kits, moldable silicone putty, epoxy, and moldable glue. You can also use fiberglass cloth and resin to strengthen and reinforce cracked pieces.
